After Solo
Going solo isn't the end, it's just the beginning! With badges, ratings and competitions to think about now, there's a lot more that gliding has to offer.
BGA Badges
First Solo
FAI Badges
Your first solo is an amazing achievement, one which you'll remember forever and not something to be passed over! It opens up so many avenues, with the main one being your "badges".
Following the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) badges is the easiest way to understand the experience levels of a glider pilot. When you first solo, you'll be given the BGA Gliding Certificate with Solo Endorsement. Then, once you've gained some experience, you'll be put forward for your bronze badge and cross country endorsement. This is the level at which you'll qualify for your Glider Pilot License.
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Then, once you've had some early cross country experience, you'll move up to the silver badge level. This is recognised internationally, and is where the majority of post solo possibilities open up. Many competitions and ratings require you to have gained your silver badge.
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The gold badge is the next level, and shows you have demonstrated significant flying experience and ability.
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The "three diamonds" are the ultimate demonstrator of a pilot's skill and expertise. Should you gain all three diamonds, you are widely regarded as an expert glider pilot, and join other pilots in the FAI's "hall of fame" of pilots holding a gold badge with three diamond endorsements.
What Else?
Competitions
With members competing in competitons every year, and friendly interclub leagues with other local clubs, OGC can help you start your competing career.
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Previous members have flown in international competitons representing UK gliding on the world stage.
Instructing
You've used their services, you've spoken to them, and now you want to become one.
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Oxford Gliding Club is fully equipped to set members off on their instructor career, with experienced tutition from a senior instructor team and good links to the BGA for formal qualification
Expeditions
Oxford Gliding Club has excellent national and international links to be able to organise gliding expeditions or holidays. Often we have at least three expeditions a year to different gliding sites, all members are welcome, and we learn about alternative lift sources like ridge and wave lift.
Aerobatics
Oxford Gliding Club has the ability to instruct pilots and qualify them in the basic aerobatic rating. Spins, Chandelles and Loops are all possible, and we provide affordable membership rates, especially as with our average launch heights, we don't need expensive aerotows.
Vintage Gliding
OGC is one of the oldest gliding clubs in the country, and every year a group of pilots travel to the international vintage gliding rally.
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With a number of vintage gliders on site and the collective expertise of our inspectors, OGC is an excellent place to learn about gliding heritage.
Social Flying
There is always the option for pilots to remain solo and fly for the pleasure of it.
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Our pilots often find the social appeal of Oxford Gliding Club always draws them back, even if it is just to fly on summer evenings and have a BBQ with good friends afterwards.
Cross Country Flying
Oxford Gliding Club members often have extensive experience of flying cross country, and are always more than happy to impart their knowledge.
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Flying above famous British landmarks is one of the best ways to see the country, and the sense of achievement is second to none.
Technical Skills
With a highly experienced instructor team, a lot of our members have learnt skills which they can apply to vehicle maintenance, DIY projects or are just happy to know.
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Some members have moved into aeronautical engineering careers with skills they learn here at OGC.